---- David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET> wrote:
> At 08:08 PM 4/16/2011, Mike S wrote:
> >That's a lot of work. Even simpler, take off that energy-sucking
> >alternator, and drive only on battery for electrical needs. Then
> >recharge every XXX miles.
>
> Simpler yet, take off that energy-sucking power steering system and
> replace it with one that is either electric or doesn't run the pump
> at a high head continuously.  Ok, not simpler - but more effective I
> think and doesn't have the weight penalty of having to have separate
> starting and running batteries.

Prius has electric power steering, and electric compressor for air conditioning (necessary if these accessories are to work when the engine shuts off, which it does a lot).  Remember when cars the size of the Prius simply did not have power steering?  My Toyota pickup, 1993 model, did not have power steering.  Simply not equipped.  I managed it fine.  I used to consider power steering simply another thing to break.

mcneely